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Pneumococcal conjugate 15 (PNEU-C15) vaccine

Learn about the PNEU-C15 vaccine, effectiveness, side effects, and safety.

Disease it protects from

The PNEU-C15 vaccine protects against 15 strains (types) of the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae that cause pneumococcal disease.

Who should get this vaccine

As part of the routine immunization schedule, children get this vaccine starting at age 2 months up to and including age 4 years. You do not get this vaccine if you are age 5 years or older.

Who should not get this vaccine

You may not be able to get this vaccine if:

  • You have an allergy to any part of the vaccine.
  • You had a severe (serious) or unusual side effect after this vaccine or one like it.

If you have allergies or have had a side effect from this vaccine, check with your doctor or a public health nurse before you get the vaccine.

Although you can get the vaccine if you have a mild illness such as a cold or fever, you should stay home until you are feeling better to prevent spreading your illness to others.

Doses

Most children need 3 doses, which are given at ages 2, 4, and 12 months. If your child hasn’t had all of their pneumococcal vaccine doses as part of their routine immunizations, the PNEU-C15 vaccine can be used to complete their series.

Your child may get fewer doses depending on their age when they start this vaccine. It’s not recommended to delay this immunization because babies have a higher risk of pneumococcal disease. Ask your healthcare provider how many doses your child needs.

Other vaccines that protect against the same diseases

Pneumococcal conjugate 20 vaccine (PNEU-C20) may be recommended for people who are at a higher risk for serious pneumococcal disease. This includes people who:

  • have heart, lung, kidney, or liver problems
  • have diabetes
  • have a weak immune system
  • are age 65 years or older
  • are Indigenous
  • live in a care facility, like a continuing care home
  • experience homelessness
  • smoke or vape
  • live in a home with poor indoor air quality, like if you use a wood-burning stove or live with someone who smokes inside the home
  • have an alcohol or substance use problem

Ask your healthcare provider what pneumococcal vaccine you should have.

Get the vaccine

If you can get the vaccine for free, you can get it at your local public health or community health centre.

If you want the vaccine and need to pay for it, contact a private immunization clinic or talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Current as of: June 24, 2024
Author: Provincial Immunization Program, Alberta Health Services
Our work takes place on historical and contemporary Indigenous lands, including the territories of Treaty 6, Treaty 7 & Treaty 8 and the homeland of the Métis Nation of Alberta and 8 Métis Settlements. We also acknowledge the many Indigenous communities that have been forged in urban centres across Alberta.